Budgetary shortfalls and excessive layoffs have left public schools with a deficiency of professional innovation as well as modern theory and practice. It is imperative that educators identify the exemplary school systems that are engaging students and adults in 21st century education, and broadcast those patterns of success to schools in need of reform. These researchers presented comparative, qualitative case studies on engagement in work in two regional areas in Suffolk County, New York. The purpose of these studies was to investigate how school systems and educators engage students and adults in 21st century education.